What is the characterization of first-degree arson?

First-degree arson is characterized by the intentional act of knowingly damaging a dwelling while also endangering human life. This is a serious offense because it involves not only the destruction of property but also poses a direct threat to individuals potentially residing or present in that dwelling. The law recognizes the heightened risk to human life associated with setting fires in places where people live, and thus, categorizes such actions as first-degree arson.

The other options do not fully capture the legal essence of first-degree arson. For instance, causing a fire that threatens no one does not involve endangerment to human life, and damaging property without risk to human life reflects a lesser degree of culpability. Furthermore, causing a fire in a non-residential building is more related to different degrees of arson that do not rise to the severity of first-degree.